Say “I am joining the FBI” to the average person and the first image that comes to their mind might be one of a special agent in tactical gear, drawing a gun. However, although many FBI careers involve weapons and tactical training etc., there are just as many that do not. There is high demand for other specialists in a variety of fields, including foreign languages. The FBI offers many interesting opportunities for linguists, for instance, and those career opportunities are what I will discuss here.
Basic information regarding FBI Linguist positions
If you are a United States citizen, are professionally fluent in a second language, are eligible to receive a Top Secret security clearance, and seek an exciting and unusual career in law enforcement, a career as an FBI Linguist might be for you. There are several positions to choose from. Most are contract positions except for careers as a Special Agent Linguist or FBI Language Specialist (Contract FBI Linguists are not guaranteed a specific number of hours. However, some Linguists are offered positions as Full Time Language Specialists)
Available positions, as listed on the FBI website:
Contract Linguist
According to the job listing, Contract Linguists primarily translate documents (audio files or text documents) but may also take part in interviews and interrogations. This position is not a telecommuting position. Contract Linguists must work on Bureau premises.
Contract Language Monitor
This is also a translating position.
Contract Tester
Contract Testers conduct language proficiency tests over the telephone for the FBI.
Special Agent Linguist
As a Special Agent Linguist you must be able to qualify for and pass special agent training and meet all other special agent requirements.
Requirements for Special Agent Linguists include, but are not limited to, the following:
Candidates must possess a four year degree.
Candidates must meet the physical fitness and general health requirements listed on the FBI website.
As with all FBI positions, candidates must pass an extensive background check.
Languages needed
Among the 40+ languages wanted are:
Arabic
Chinese (all dialects)
Farsi
French
Hebrew
Korean
Polish
Norwegian
Russian
Ukrainian
The complete language list can be found on the FBI job site here
All positions with the FBI require that candidates pass an FBI background investigation and receive a Top Secret security clearance. The background investigation includes a polygraph test and an extensive investigation into the candidate’s life which will include interviews with employers, acquaintances and friends, past and present. If you do apply, it is a good idea to let your friends know they might be approached by the FBI.
Linguists fulfill a very important role in the intelligence branch of law enforcement. Furthermore, the demand for language specialists is not likely to wane any time soon. Anyone with excellent foreign language skills, who is also seeking a career with law enforcement, should consider a career as an FBI linguist.
For more information on linguistic jobs or other Bureau opportunities, please visit the web site link I have provided in the resources section of this article.
